Warhammer Vermintide 2 Xbox One Review

"Ratfest Hits Consoles"

Campaign

I definitely loved the first game in this series, I played it on Xbox One originally and loved the style of gameplay. It's certainly similar to Left 4 Dead, but achieves the addicting cooperative aspect in a different way. Warhammer Vermintide 2 is based on Warhammer's fantasy side of things as you battle a raging rat plague. There's more going on other than that, but that's explored through the narrative. This second release carries forward the heroes from the original while giving them an upgrade in the transition. The background narrative is there and it just builds upon the strong foundations set previously.

The story takes place over a series of acts from which you battle across a variety of environments and situations. Things are always slightly different as you play and it's easy to just jump into any mission with quickplay. It's designed for replay, though you can move through it regularly as one cohesive set tale if you'd like. The objectives are greatly varied per level as you always have missions to do while you work through an open, yet linear path. You may need to get things moving, destroy objects or take on larger bosses that center stage for conflict.

Gameplay

Visually I was definitely blown away with Warhammer Vermintide 2 on Xbox One X, it is a step up over the original matching that enhancement well. I did however come across some screen tearing situations, but nothing too dire. There are many unique settings to visit and a focus on gruesome visceral action as you deal with rats or other creatures. This is best played in an online group of players for coop, but you can work with the very competent and helpful AI if needed.

Since the game is based around melee weapons or basic distance tools supplies such as ammo can be important. Other items include health packs or potions for a quick boost of life. There's a castle lobby area in the game where you can customize your character, upgrade items and roll for new better abilities.

The Conclusion

Warhammer Vermintide 2 on Xbox One X is a welcomed improvement over the first game not only in terms of story, but visuals as well. Battle through vast areas, face off in a series of challenging acts and most of all work together in a cooperative environment. It's a gorgeous time providing compelling visuals and exciting visceral combat.

You can feel the weight of weapons as you slash through hordes as a squad or fire away at anything moving towards your direction. It's best as a multiplayer title, yet the AI does work fine if you need to play with them. This is a great package providing hours of gameplay and lots of content to work through. The rats have returned, in greater numbers and we have to find what's going on mystically. It's an important goal as society is winding down.